Central Texas College Honors Nursing Graduates at Traditional Pinning Ceremony

Ceremony marks symbolic transition from student to nurse

KILLEEN, TX (May 8, 2025) — Central Texas College celebrated the accomplishments of 27 Spring graduates from its nursing program during two pinning ceremonies held Thursday including a ceremony for students in its vocational nursing program and a second ceremony for students earning associate degrees in nursing. The time-honored tradition marks the symbolic transition from student to professional nurse.

Dr. Susan Ramnarine-Singh, Director of Nursing at CTC, emphasized the strength of the program.

“It has not only been successful, but we have had a perfect 100% pass rate for the last two cohorts. And we are very proud of that,” she said.

She also noted that CTC’s 9-month Licensed Vocational Nursing program is one of only three in the state of Texas—a distinction that underscores the college’s commitment to excellence in nursing education and preparation of students to fill the nationwide nursing shortage.

Each graduate completing the program received a nursing pin, representing their readiness to serve in the health care field with compassion and competence. The pinning ceremony, deeply rooted in nursing history, highlights the dedication, resilience, and commitment required of the profession.

Among the honorees was graduate Marla Harrington, who achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA. “The nursing program at CTC does a really good job,” Harrington said. “With the degree I received, I plan to continue working in the hospital and ultimately bridge to a nursing program.”

Following the pin presentations, graduates lit ceremonial candles and recited the Nightingale Pledge, dedicating themselves to a life of caring for others in the spirit of Florence Nightingale. Students earning their associate degrees will receive their diplomas during the Spring graduation ceremony of approximately 500 local students and more than 1,000 worldwide Friday night at the Cadence Bank Center in Belton.